A framework for assessing quantity surveyors’ competence

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for assessing quantity surveyors’ competence level. Design/methodology/approach: Delphi survey research approach was adopted for the study. This involved a survey of panel of experts, constituted among registered quantity surveyors in Nigeria, and obtaining from them a consensus opinion on the issues relating to the assessment of quantity surveyors’ competence. In total, 27 out of the shortlisted 38 member panel provided valid results in the two rounds of Delphi survey conducted. A conceptual framework linking educational training, professional capability and professional development is developed. Findings: The findings establish the ratings of the identified three competence criteria. On a scale of 0–100 percent rating, educational training was scored 34.04 percent, professional capability 45.22 percent and professional development 20.74 percent. Originality/value: The proposed framework provide a conceptual approach in assessing quantity surveyor overall competence. Specifically, it demonstrates the significance of the identified three competence criteria groupings in the training, practice and development of quantity surveying profession. It could therefore serves as foundation of on how quantity surveyors are trained, developed and evaluated.